Mon Amour is the passion project of Saira Essa, a pioneering force in South African arts and media. With an unmatched blend of creativity, courage, and resilience, Saira has devoted her life to challenging boundaries and creating spaces where beauty, inspiration, and empowerment converge.
Unbeknown to most, Franschhoek has welcomed its own “Bengal Tiger” in Saira Essa, whose grace, strength, and vision bring Mon Amour to life. Like Noor, the majestic tiger that symbolises her spirit, Saira embodies the essence, beauty, and unmatched power of the feminine
A Journey of Resilience and Creation
Mon Amour was born on a flight from London to Dubai in early 2020, during a moment of profound reflection and inspiration. As the world braced itself for change, Saira saw an opportunity to bring her vision to life back home—a vision for a place that celebrates the best of food, art, and soul. After two years of reimagining and creating, Mon Amour has become more than a destination; it’s an enchanting experience that transports guests to an “Imaginary Forest” where elegance meets whimsy.
An Enchanted Space Inspired by Nature
Drawing from her childhood memories and a deep connection with nature, Saira worked tirelessly with her wall mural designer, Cara Saven to create Mon Amour’s ethereal atmosphere. The walls are alive with murals of towering trees, exotic animals, and vibrant flora, all handpicked to reflect Saira’s love for art and storytelling. Noor, the Bengal tiger, gazes protectively over this enchanted forest, symbolising Mon Amour’s spirit—“a place where imagination is everything”.
A Legacy of Artistic Influence
Saira’s journey began long before Mon Amour. She was a trailblazer in South African theatre, founding the Upstairs Theatre and Community Workshop to challenge apartheid through storytelling. Her award-winning productions and community projects amplified the voices of South Africans and paved the way for meaningful change. Transitioning into television, she produced documentaries tackling pressing social issues and lifestyle shows that celebrated South Africa’s diverse culture.
With Mon Amour, Saira has created an intimate sanctuary where food, flowers, and fabulousness blend to create a celebration of life and love. It’s a place where every corner whispers a story, and every detail honours Saira’s rich journey—a journey rooted in resilience, creativity, and a fearless pursuit of dreams.
Get in Touch
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you're planning a special occasion, have a question about our menu, have press enquiries, or simply want to share your experience, reach out and let us make your visit to Mon Amour unforgettable.